American music icon Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, bringing an end to a remarkable career that spanned more than six decades.
Parton, the celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Her death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video shared on social media.
“Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus,” Seaver said, describing the legendary performer as a multiple award-winning artist who opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and aspiring performers.
The family did not immediately disclose the cause of death.
Health Concerns Before Her Death
Parton had spoken publicly in recent months about health challenges that forced her to cancel a series of planned Las Vegas concerts in May.
In videos shared on her social media platforms, she said she was responding well to treatment for an unspecified illness but was not yet ready to return to the stage.
Her death also comes about a year after the passing of her husband, Carl Dean.
Trump Pays Tribute to Music Legend
Following news of Parton’s death, US President Donald Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff across the country for a week in her honour.
Trump described her death as a “true loss for millions of people,” adding that there had “never been anyone like her, and never will.”
The tribute reflected Parton’s extraordinary place in American culture and the breadth of her influence beyond country music.
From Nashville Dreamer to Global Superstar
Parton moved to Nashville, Tennessee, immediately after graduating from high school, determined to build a career in music.
Her breakthrough came in 1967 when, at just 21, she joined Porter Wagoner’s syndicated country music television programme. The show introduced her to millions of American viewers and helped establish her as one of the leading voices in country music.
Over a career lasting six decades, Parton became one of the most prolific songwriters in popular music, writing an estimated 3,000 songs.
Her best-known compositions and recordings include “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” The latter achieved even greater international fame when Whitney Houston recorded it for the soundtrack of The Bodyguard.
Parton also collaborated with numerous artists and saw her songs covered by performers including Shania Twain, Sinéad O’Connor and the White Stripes.
A Lasting Legacy
Parton released dozens of studio albums and more than 100 compilation and collaborative albums throughout her career, earning widespread recognition as one of country music’s defining figures.
But her influence extended far beyond record sales and awards. Through her songwriting, performances, acting, business ventures and philanthropy, Parton became a beloved figure whose appeal crossed generations and musical genres.
Her distinctive voice, songwriting talent and larger-than-life personality helped make her an enduring symbol of American popular culture.
Dolly Parton leaves behind a musical legacy that will continue to influence singers, songwriters and musicians around the world for generations to come.
